Sports

Hartnett: United States Delivers History At Azteca

75 Years Of Waiting Is Finally OverAugust 16, 2012 10:25 AM

Michael Orozco of the United States celebrates after scoring with teammates during a FIFA friendly match between Mexico and US at Azteca Stadium on August 15, 2012 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Miguel Tovar/Getty Images)

There is a reason why the United States previously never won at Azteca. The stadium sits 7,200 feet above sea level. A majority of Mexican national team members play club football in their own country and are acclimated to the high altitudes.

That’s not the case most of the American players, who were already fatigued from flying across the Atlantic on leave from their European club teams.

It’s not just the altitude, but also the pollution and volatile atmosphere that are huge issues for opponents entering Azteca.

It’s nearly impossible to win at the Azteca. In 120 matches, only nine visiting teams have ever won at Mexico’s national stadium. It is the ultimate home field advantage for the Mexican national team.

More Than A Friendly Match

When does a friendly match mean more than just a friendly? Every time the United States faces Mexico, a fierce battle unfolds.

Clint Dempsey, Michael Bradley, Carlos Bocanegra and a number of U.S. first team regulars did not make the trip across the border. That didn’t matter. Those who wore the red and white striped jerseys played with immense pride for the uniform and people back home they were representing.

Klinsmann brought a group of less-experienced players to Azteca, but they played with their full hearts and souls.

An Unlikely Hero

It was fitting that Michael Orozco Fiscal, a Mexican-American scored the winner at Azteca. Orozco Fiscal had never scored for the U.S. national team in his four previous national team appearances. He plays his club football for San Luis of Mexico’s Liga MX.

Brek Shea cut into the box and slid a neat pass to Terrance Boyd who stylishly back-heeled the ball to Orozco Fiscal, who gave the Americans a shock lead in the 80th minute. He had only come onto the pitch three minutes earlier as a substitute, but became an instant hero.

“The goal was for the U.S. fans and the whole U.S.. We made history,” Orozco Fiscal said after the match.

Mexico had dominated with 66% of possession time and the U.S. had rarely tested Mexican keeper Guillermo Ochoa, who only made two saves all match.

Sensational Tim Howard

Tim Howard of the other hand, was very busy keeping Mexico off the score sheet. Howard and Mexican star striker Chicharito Hernandez often compete against one another in the English Premier League as respective members of Everton and Manchester United.

Hernandez and Howard had an ongoing duel during the final 15 minutes at Azteca. Howard made an number of late dramatic saves to preserve the Americans’ historic 1-0 victory.

The defenders in front of Howard kept warding-off attack after attack. Mexico had 19 scoring chances, but the defenders in front of Howard did their job by limiting many clear-cut chances.

Geoff Cameron was particularly superb under the harsh conditions of Azteca and was a rock for the Americans. Maurice Edu typically plays central midfield, but was shifted to central defense for this match. Even though it isn’t his usual position, Edu handled the role like a capable veteran defender.